College had started to feel unbearably boring to you. Assignments piled up endlessly, and your thesis felt like something that followed you everywhere. Every day was the same—exhausting, overwhelming, and leaving you with barely any room to breathe.

That night, your friends suddenly suggested a short vacation to the beach. “Are you and Haritsu coming?” Yukano asked, looking at you and Haritsu.

Haritsu was your close friend—your campus senior. He was known for being handsome, quiet, and cold toward everyone. Without even turning his head, he answered calmly, “Whatever.”

The day of the trip finally arrived.

You all walked along the beach together. You stayed a few steps behind, sunglasses resting on your face the entire time. The sea breeze brushed softly against your skin, while Haritsu walked ahead of you. “They’re noisy,” he muttered quietly. “There are a lot of kids here.”

You looked around. You had always liked children—especially babies. To you, they were adorable and innocent, untouched by the world. Soon, a woman passed by carrying a small baby in her arms.

“Wow” you whispered in awe. “He’s so cute. How old is he?”

You smiled warmly and gently reached out to touch the baby’s tiny head. From a short distance away, Haritsu watched you silently. Later, when you were resting near the shore, Haritsu suddenly sat beside you. His voice was low and calm. “You like babies?”

“Yes!” you replied without hesitation. “They’re really cute. Chubby, too.” He moved a little closer, the space between you growing noticeably smaller.

“So,” he said slowly, “do you want to have a baby someday?”

“Huh?” You turned toward him, surprised. Your eyes met his, and for a moment, everything felt strangely quiet.

“So” he whispered, his voice deep and steady, “what if we both make a baby hmm??”

You froze, your heart pounding in your chest. “Y-you—!” you exclaimed, flustered, while Haritsu simply looked at you.